Topic

Hijab & Women's Dress

Hijab, modest clothing and starting to cover at your own pace. Short, honest answers for new Muslims.

Can I show my hair to my gay male friend?

Most scholars say no. A gay man is still a non-mahram man, and the Prophet barred an effeminate man from the women's rooms.

Yes, when it's medically needed. Prefer a female doctor if available, uncover only what's needed, and ask for a chaperone.

No, not with your husband, mahram relatives and women. You need it when non-mahram men visit or can see you, like on a video call.

Your father-in-law is mahram, so no. Your brothers-in-law aren't, and the Prophet specifically warned about them.

You can show your hair, neck, arms and lower legs, what normally shows doing housework. Avoid very revealing clothes.

Not in front of your father, brothers, sons, uncles or nephews, even if they're not Muslim. Male cousins and in-laws are different.

Your husband, close male relatives (mahram), women, and young children. Everyone else counts as a non-mahram man. Here's the full list.

Yes, with Muslim women all scholars agree. With non-Muslim women scholars differ, and many allow it if they're trustworthy.

The Quran gives older women some relief: they may set aside outer garments, though modesty is still better. Here's what that means.

Hijab becomes required at puberty. Before that, girls can try it for fun, but they shouldn't be forced or pressured.

No. Islam requires loose, opaque, modest clothing, not a specific garment. An abaya is one option; a long top and trousers work too.

Scholars differ. Most Hanafi and Maliki scholars say it's recommended, not required; many Hanbali and Shafi'i scholars say it's required.